Why Exalt Rap Music?

Why does Robert Hilburn, a man who should know better, continue to glorify a recognized band of genuine thugs (“Arena Rap Has Arrived,” June 17)?

Day after day, we are assaulted by the barrage of news items heralding this crap as “artistry,” and at the same time other reports of murder, robberies, assaults, weapons, threats, mistreatments of spouses, strong-arm tactics and worse. And, of course, the ever-present harangue from all of them concerning disrespect of authority and racial supremacies and hatred.

This garbage is deserving of the trash bin, not the front page of Calendar. Your so-called music staff and its biased coverage are a disgrace.

K. EVANS

Sherman Oaks

I deeply regret and even feel somewhat guilty that the deteriorating inner-city environment has so poisoned the lives of the rap chanters that they can only spew forth that which is crude, offensive and just plain vile. Their ideas provide an inappropriate message for our young people. The rapper’s call to defiance is absolutely the opposite of responsibility, kindness and care for others. Urging antisocial behavior is just plain wrong and should not be encouraged.

Hilburn’s review expresses acceptance and even admiration for rap music. I wish he hadn’t done this because he is encouragingsome very undesirable behavior.

QUENTIN C. STODOLA

Redondo Beach